Skip to main content

Stovetop Quinoa

This grain-like seed is quick to cook and has an earthy flavor that goes well in salads, soups and stews.
Bowls of cooked quinoa.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 3 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa (if not pre-rinsed, rinse well using a fine-mesh strainer)
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, if desired, and return the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover pan and simmer for 12 minutes.
  4. Turn off heat and let stand until water is absorbed and quinoa has the texture you like, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • For more flavor, cook with broth or milk instead of water.
  • For a roasted flavor, toast the grains in the saucepan. Stir the grains around at medium heat for a few minutes before adding liquid.
  • Topping ideas: fresh, frozen or dried fruit; milk or yogurt; chopped nuts or seeds; cinnamon or other spices. Savory toppings include vegetables and cheese.
  • Add to soups, grain bowls or grain salads.
  • No strainer? Use a clean coffee filter.

Comments

This is a no-fail way to cook quinoa. Turning off the heat and letting it sit to soak up remaining water keeps it from being soggy and overcooked.

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Chicken, Broccoli and Cheese Skillet Meal
Bowl of cheesy pasta with broccoli florets.

Chicken, Broccoli and Cheese Skillet Meal

Quick and easy pasta with fresh or frozen veggies and a cheesy sauce.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
7 Cups
Banana Ginger Sauce
A bowl of banana ginger sauce is shown with raw veggie strips and grilled tofu kebabs for dipping.

Banana Ginger Sauce

Inspired by banana ketchup, a condiment from the Philippines, this sweet and tangy sauce is the perfect addition to many dishes!
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
1 cup
Sweet Potato and Orange Muffins
Pulled-apart fluffy and moist sweet potato muffins.

Sweet Potato and Orange Muffins

A warm and comforting combination of whole-wheat flour, sweet potatoes, warm spices and tangy orange make these muffins perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
12 muffins
Lentil Taco Filling
Bowl of seasoned lentils with vegetables garnished with cilantro.

Lentil Taco Filling

A tasty alternative to meat or fish tacos that provides a filling rich in flavor.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Kiwi Popsicles
Kiwi popsicles in a bowl sitting on a table with slices of kiwi surrounding.

Kiwi Popsicles

Everyone will love these beautiful and naturally sweet and citrus-flavored treats. Perfect use for fresh or frozen kiwi and refreshing any time of year.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
8 pops
Tabouli Bulgur Wheat Salad
Bowl of vegetables with bulgur and dressing.

Tabouli Bulgur Wheat Salad

Tasty make-ahead salad with hearty whole grains, fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing.
Prepare:
45 minutes
Makes:
4 cups